Early Childhood Programs

In the Waldorf Early Childhood programs, the establishment of a secure, daily rhythm of life is central. Programs educate through play while nurturing a reverence for the natural world.

In these pre-school years, children primarily learn through the desire to imitate what surrounds them. Teachers bring rhythmic activities in to prompt creative thinking. Simple materials from nature are used in creative play, which develops imagination, concentration, coordination, language and number skills that will be revisited in the elementary years.

joyful beginnings parent & toddler program 2018-19

Joyful Beginnings offers nurturing, quiet and supportive time for parents of little ones, allowing them to simply be with their babies. In a beautiful and carefully considered environment, parents and babies will have the freedom to explore and to discover one another and themselves.

Parents will have the opportunity to bond with their child through song, finger and touching games, and through a time of conscious observation. Individualized attention will be given to both parents and infants as we explore topics such as the infant gaining self-confidence through:* Self-initated movement * Conscious caregiving * Creating family tradition * Healthy rhythm and routine * Sleep and nourishment

The Parent/Child program provides a supportive environment to parents and caregivers as they delve into the joys and challenges of parenting. Morning classes offer a time for play, songs, verses, a snack and crafts. Through weekly group conversations, parents are offered a time for focused attention on their child as he or she explores the world.

stepping stone toddler program

This Waldorf Early Childhood program offers toddlers a beautiful, peaceful and nurturing home-like environment to take their "first steps" into class on their own. A strong daily rhythm is held, filled with artistic endeavors, music, baking and outdoor time. Special attention is given to the development of socialization with their peers. Wonder, awe and respect of nature, the world around us and one another is central to the Stepping Stone classroom. To learn more about the Stepping Stone Toddler program, click here.

Mixed-Age Kindergarten Program

Mixed-age classrooms in early childhood give children the opportunity to interact with their peers. Older children provide a model for the younger ones in their more refined social, lingual, artistic, and operational skills, while the little ones help the older children to engage in deeper imaginative play. All children benefit from an atmosphere of family and learn mutual concern for one another’s well being. Children who attend our Afternoon Garden program will eat lunch after transitioning from morning class.

Inclement Weather Policy: In the event of a two-hour delay, morning Kindergarten will still be held- beginning at 10:15 am.

sunrise and sunset programs

The Susquehanna Waldorf School provides a before school and after school program to accommodate parents.